First Thoughts on the Flextone FLX-FLXTK129 EZ Hen (Mouth
The world of turkey hunting can be intimidating, especially when it comes to mastering the art of calling. With countless diaphragm calls on the market, finding one that’s easy to learn and consistently produces realistic sounds can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. Enter the Flextone FLX-FLXTK129 EZ Hen (Mouth). This call promises to simplify the process, particularly for beginners, with its straightforward design and double reed construction. For a seasoned outdoorsman like myself, with a decade spent guiding and hunting across diverse terrains, I was intrigued to see if this call lived up to its “EZ” moniker and whether it could hold its own against more complex and expensive alternatives.
My quest for this particular mouth call stemmed from witnessing firsthand the frustration of novice hunters struggling with more intricate designs. I wanted a reliable, easy-to-master call to recommend to my clients and friends who were new to turkey hunting. I was looking for simplicity without sacrificing realism.
The Flextone EZ Hen comes in simple packaging, reflecting its budget-friendly price point. Upon opening it, I immediately noticed the thin profile and the clear separation of the two reeds. The build quality felt adequate for the price; it’s not going to win any awards for craftsmanship, but it doesn’t feel flimsy either.
Compared to some of my higher-end diaphragm calls like those from Primos or Woodhaven, the EZ Hen is noticeably less refined. However, those calls often come with a significantly higher price tag and a steeper learning curve. I considered cheaper single-reed calls, but I find that they lack the tonal versatility needed to mimic a range of hen sounds effectively. I chose the Flextone EZ Hen because of its promise of ease of use and the potential to produce two-note yelps – a crucial aspect of realistic turkey calling.
My first impression was cautiously optimistic. The simplicity was appealing, but I wondered if it would translate into authentic sound production. Would it be a game-changer for beginners, or would it fall short of delivering the necessary realism to attract wary gobblers?
Real-World Testing: Putting Flextone FLX-FLXTK129 EZ Hen (Mouth to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Flextone EZ Hen to the test during the spring turkey season in the rugged foothills of the Appalachian Mountains. I specifically chose a location known for its challenging terrain and call-shy birds. The weather was typical for spring – damp and cool with occasional gusts of wind. I spent several hours experimenting with the call in different scenarios, attempting everything from soft clucks and purrs to more aggressive yelps and cutts.
The initial learning curve was remarkably short. Unlike some diaphragm calls that require hours of practice to produce a decent sound, the EZ Hen lived up to its name. Within minutes, I was able to produce consistent, albeit basic, two-note yelps. The call performed reasonably well in the damp conditions; however, excessive moisture did affect its responsiveness, requiring occasional drying to maintain consistent sound quality.
The first issue I encountered was keeping the call properly positioned in my mouth. The smaller size of the EZ Hen compared to my usual calls meant it shifted around a bit more, requiring slight adjustments to maintain consistent airflow. There were no major surprises; the call generally performed as expected, but I was hoping for a bit more versatility in terms of tonal range.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of consistent use, the Flextone EZ Hen held up surprisingly well. While the tape holding the reeds together showed some minor signs of wear, the call continued to function effectively. I stored the call in a small, breathable pouch to prevent moisture buildup and maintain its integrity.
The EZ Hen proved to be reasonably durable for its price point. It withstood the rigors of being carried in my vest pocket and exposed to varying weather conditions. Cleaning was relatively simple – a quick rinse with water and air drying was usually sufficient.
Compared to my more expensive diaphragm calls, the EZ Hen definitely lacked the same level of nuance and tonal complexity. My Woodhaven call can produce a wider range of sounds with greater realism. However, for its intended purpose – providing a beginner-friendly and reliable call – the Flextone EZ Hen exceeded my expectations. It consistently produced adequate hen sounds and proved to be a valuable tool for attracting turkeys, particularly in situations where subtlety was key.
Breaking Down the Features of Flextone FLX-FLXTK129 EZ Hen (Mouth
Specifications
Type: Mouth/Diaphragm Turkey Call. This is a standard mouth call, designed to be placed in the roof of the mouth and manipulated with the tongue and airflow.
Reed Configuration: Traditional .003 Double Reed. This double reed design aims to create two-note yelps, a fundamental sound for imitating hen turkeys.
Intended User: New Mouth Callers. The Flextone EZ Hen is explicitly designed for beginners who are just learning to use diaphragm calls.
Material: Not Specified (Likely Latex Reeds with Tape Frame). The reeds are most likely latex, and the frame is held together by moisture-resistant tape.
Price: $5.99. This makes it an exceptionally affordable option for those on a budget or just starting out.
These specifications are significant because they directly impact the call’s ease of use and sound quality. The double reed allows for producing basic hen sounds without needing advanced calling techniques. The low price makes it an accessible entry point for new turkey hunters.
Performance & Functionality
The Flextone FLX-FLXTK129 EZ Hen (Mouth) performs its intended job reasonably well: producing basic hen sounds, primarily yelps, clucks, and purrs. It is easy to produce consistent, albeit simple, calls with minimal practice.
The main strength of this call is its ease of use. The double reed design is forgiving, allowing beginners to produce recognizable turkey sounds quickly. The weaknesses lie in its limited tonal range and lack of subtlety compared to more advanced calls. It meets expectations for a beginner call, but experienced callers will likely find it lacking in versatility.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is acceptable for the price. The materials feel somewhat basic, but the call is lightweight and comfortable in the mouth for extended periods. The design is simple and functional.
It is user-friendly, designed explicitly for beginners. There is virtually no learning curve; even someone who has never used a diaphragm call before can produce a basic yelp within minutes.
Durability & Maintenance
The Flextone EZ Hen, with proper care, should last through at least one hunting season, maybe more, depending on usage. The tape holding the reeds together is the most vulnerable point, but it can be easily reinforced if needed.
Maintenance is simple – rinse with water after use and allow to air dry. Avoid excessive moisture and storing the call in direct sunlight.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Flextone EZ Hen does not come with any additional accessories. There are no customization options available for this particular model. Given the price point, this is not unexpected. It is designed to be a simple, ready-to-use call without any bells and whistles.
The call is compatible with standard diaphragm call cases and storage pouches, which are readily available from various brands. While there are no specific Flextone-branded accessories, any universal diaphragm call accessory will work.
Pros and Cons of Flextone FLX-FLXTK129 EZ Hen (Mouth
Pros
- Extremely Affordable: At around $6, it’s an accessible entry point for beginners.
- Easy to Use: Designed for novice callers, producing basic sounds quickly.
- Consistent Sound: Produces reliable, repeatable yelps, clucks, and purrs.
- Functional for Beginners: Gets the job done and can help call in turkeys.
- Lightweight and Comfortable: Easy to keep in the mouth for extended periods.
Cons
- Limited Tonal Range: Lacks the subtlety and nuance of more advanced calls.
- Basic Build Quality: The materials are not as durable as higher-end options.
- Moisture Sensitivity: Performance can be affected by excessive saliva or rain.
Who Should Buy Flextone FLX-FLXTK129 EZ Hen (Mouth?
The Flextone FLX-FLXTK129 EZ Hen (Mouth) is perfect for:
- Beginner turkey hunters who are new to using diaphragm calls.
- Hunters on a tight budget who need an affordable and functional call.
- Anyone looking for a simple, no-frills call to add to their turkey hunting arsenal.
Who should skip this product?
- Experienced turkey hunters who demand a wide range of realistic sounds.
- Hunters who prioritize durability and premium build quality.
- Those who need a call that performs flawlessly in all weather conditions.
Must-have accessories or modifications? A small, breathable pouch for storing the call and a diaphragm call case to protect it during transport are essential.
Conclusion on Flextone FLX-FLXTK129 EZ Hen (Mouth
The Flextone FLX-FLXTK129 EZ Hen (Mouth) is a solid choice for beginner turkey hunters. Its ease of use and affordable price make it an excellent entry point into the world of diaphragm calling. While it lacks the nuanced sound quality and durability of more expensive options, it delivers consistent performance and is capable of attracting turkeys.
The value proposition is excellent. For just under $6, you get a functional call that can help you get started turkey hunting. The price is absolutely justified for its intended purpose.
I would personally recommend it to anyone who is new to diaphragm calls or who needs a reliable backup call. It may not be the best call on the market, but it’s certainly one of the easiest to learn and use, and that’s what makes it a valuable tool for beginner hunters.
Give the Flextone EZ Hen a try. It might just be the key to unlocking your turkey hunting success!